6 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped
1 medium yellow onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1.5 lbs baby potatoes (Yukon Gold or red-skinned), halved
1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed
2 tablespoons ranch seasoning mix (from a packet)
1 ½ cups chicken broth
1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or ½ tsp dried)
Salt and black pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
The Foolproof, Step-by-Step Method
(This recipe comes together in one pot for maximum flavor and ease.)
Step 1: Crisp the Bacon
In a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate, leaving the delicious bacon drippings in the pot.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Add the diced onion to the bacon drippings and cook for 4-5 minutes, until softened and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for one more minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Bloom the Ranch Seasoning
Sprinkle the 2 tablespoons of ranch seasoning mix over the onions and garlic. Stir and cook for 30 seconds. This "blooms" the spices, unlocking their full potential and toasting them in the fat for a deeper flavor.
Step 4: Simmer to Perfection
Add the halved baby potatoes and the chicken broth to the pot, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer, cover, and cook for 15 minutes.
Step 5: Add the Green Beans
Add the fresh green beans and thyme to the pot, stirring to combine. Cover and continue to simmer for another 10-15 minutes, or until both the potatoes and green beans are tender.
Step 6: The Grand Finale
Remove the lid and let the liquid reduce for a few minutes if it's too brothy. Season with salt and pepper to taste (remember, the bacon and ranch seasoning are salty!). Stir in half of the reserved crispy bacon.
Step 7: Serve and Garnish
Transfer the mixture to a serving bowl. Garnish with the remaining crispy bacon and a generous sprinkle of fresh parsley.
Pro-Tips for the Best Results
Don't Skip the Bacon Step: Rendering the bacon fat first is the flavor foundation of the entire dish. That smoky fat is liquid gold!
Potato Size Matters: Halve or quarter the potatoes so they are all roughly the same size. This ensures they cook evenly and are all tender at the same time.
Fresh is Best: While you can use frozen green beans, fresh ones will hold their texture and vibrant color much better in this simmering dish.
Customize It: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes with the garlic for a little heat, or stir in a tablespoon of butter at the end for extra richness.
Serving & Enjoying: How to Make It a Meal
This dish is incredibly versatile.
The Perfect Side: Serve it alongside fried chicken, grilled pork chops, or meatloaf.
A Light Main Course: Serve it in a bowl with a fried egg on top for a delicious brunch or dinner.
Potluck Star: This recipe doubles easily and travels well, making it perfect for feeding a crowd.
Conclusion: Your New Go-To Comforting Side
Country Ranch Green Beans and Potatoes is more than a recipe; it's a testament to the power of simple, good ingredients cooked with care. It’s the kind of dish that nourishes the body and soul, creating a sense of warmth and contentment with every bite.
We would love to see your beautiful creation! Did it become an instant family favorite? Share a photo of your one-pot masterpiece in the comments below!
Love hearty vegetable sides? You have to try our [Garlic Parmesan Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon]—it’s another crispy, flavorful winner!
